Non-standard Engines for Kitfoxes

[genie]

This is an interesting comment. Since my previous entry I managed to locate the article you are mentioned, I believe. I believe that it comes from Kitplanes June 2020 pp 18 - 25. Initially the builder chose a Viking 130 HP 1.5-litre Honda Fit engine. After experiencing many problems with it he replaced it with a ULPower 350iS. From what I understand from this article one should avoid the former. Using Google I found that many people have written about Viking engine problems.

George Nielsen

[Dave S]

Another point to consider when thinking about an auto conversion engine: Call up the insurance carrier who you would have insure the plane and ask them about it.

Before I sent in my order for my kit - called the guys up and the answer I got was they really, really liked kitfox airplanes with a rotax 4 stroke and trigear.

Auto engines are not necessarily shown the same consideration by insurers as engines designed for aircraft in the first place; and, that can translate into cost and insurability.......but it depends.

Just a thought

[Rodney]

I upgraded my 912ULS with Hal Stockton who offers a very high quality big bore kit.

Several folks on the forum have also upgraded their engines and I have never heard a bad word about Jay (his partner) or Hal. They are just the best and stand behind their products.

My engine is now rated at 114 Hp continuous. When you consider that a 912ULS is really a 95 HP continuous engine, it's a pretty substantial upgrade. And, you can really tell the difference.

I think Hal also has a cam now that adds a little more HP, but you have to split the case to install it.

My 114 engine was new cylinders and new pistons. They have more cooling fins on them and are really high quality. Basically, bolt on more HP.

If you decide to go with the Rotax and want a little more HP, you might consider getting an upgrade from Hal.

Regards
Rodney

[jiott]

I noticed the comment on torque:"it is what turns your prop". Yes that's true, but torque without adequate HP is useless. HP is what turns your prop at the speed required because it is a combination of torque and rpm. Some folks get hung up on engine torque but its only half the equation. Its POWER that you really need, especially in an aircraft engine where you never lug it down near zero speed. My torque wrench can generate all the torque I need to turn my prop, but my arms don't have nearly the power necessary to do it at 2000 rpm.